Drilling Fluids Engineer

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits

Hybrid role

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Drilling Fluids Engineer based in Rustenburg, North West. The role involves designing, managing, and optimizing drilling fluid programs to support efficient, safe drilling operations.

You will supervise fluid systems on rigs, run laboratory tests, and provide on-site technical guidance to crews. The ideal candidate has strong fluid chemistry and rheology expertise, hands-on field experience, and the ability to troubleshoot performance issues while collaborating with

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a chemical/ petroleum/ chemistry related field.
• Minimum 5 years in drilling fluids or closely related Oil & Gas role.
• Experience with water-based, oil-based, and synthetic-based drilling fluids.
• Strong understanding of rheology, fluid mechanics, filtration, and wellbore stability.
• Laboratory testing procedures for drilling fluids.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Willingness to travel to drilling sites, including remote locations.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement tailored drilling fluid programs based on geological conditions and wellbore requirements.
• Supervise daily operations of drilling fluid systems on rigs and ensure fluid properties meet parameters.
• Conduct laboratory testing and analysis of drilling fluid samples to monitor performance.
• Provide on-site technical support to drilling crews and mud engineers.
• Optimize fluid formulations to enhance drilling efficiency and reduce NPT.
• Ensure safe handling, storage, and disposal of drilling fluids and chemicals per regulations.
• Prepare reports on drilling fluid performance, costs, and recommendations.
• Collaborate with geologists, directional drillers, and rig personnel to meet objectives.
• Stay updated on new technologies and best practices in drilling fluid engineering for the Rustenburg region.

Skills

Fluid chemistry

Rheology

Drilling mechanics

Field operations

Laboratory testing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Chemistry, or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the upstream Oil & Gas sector , is seeking a highly skilled and analytical Drilling Fluids Engineer to join their team. This role is integral to the success of drilling operations, ensuring the optimal performance and safety of drilling fluid systems. Based in Rustenburg, North West , you will be responsible for designing, managing, and optimizing drilling fluid programs for various drilling projects. The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical background in fluid chemistry, rheology, and drilling mechanics, coupled with hands‑on experience in field operations. This position demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to innovation in drilling fluid technology. We are looking for an individual who can contribute to efficient drilling operations and cost reduction through expert fluid management.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement tailored drilling fluid programs based on geological conditions, wellbore requirements, and operational objectives.
• Supervise and manage the daily operations of drilling fluid systems on drilling rigs, ensuring fluid properties meet specified parameters.
• Conduct laboratory testing and analysis of drilling fluid samples to monitor performance and troubleshoot any issues.
• Provide on-site technical support and guidance to drilling crews and mud engineers.
• Optimize fluid formulations to enhance drilling efficiency, minimize non-productive time (NPT), and reduce environmental impact.
• Ensure the safe handling, storage, and disposal of drilling fluids and associated chemicals in compliance with regulations.
• Prepare detailed reports on drilling fluid performance, costs, and recommendations for improvement.
• Collaborate with geologists, directional drillers, and rig personnel to achieve drilling objectives effectively.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and industry best practices in drilling fluid engineering for the Rustenburg region.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Drilling Fluids Engineer or in a closely related role within the Oil & Gas industry .
• Proven experience with various types of drilling fluids (water-based, oil-based, synthetic-based) and their applications.
• Strong understanding of rheology, fluid mechanics, filtration, and wellbore stability principles.
• Proficiency in laboratory testing procedures for drilling fluids.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Willingness to travel to drilling sites as needed, potentially including remote locations.
• Familiarity with environmental regulations pertaining to drilling waste management.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package designed to attract and retain top talent, including performance incentives and regular salary reviews. Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance are provided. A generous retirement savings plan and life insurance coverage are also included. Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays, is offered. Opportunities for professional development, including specialized training courses and industry certifications, are readily available. This hybrid role, based in Rustenburg, North West , requires occasional on-site visits to operational areas.